But 19 technology companies (my definition, not Fortune’s) made this list, two of which scored the top two spots -- Google at No. 1 and SAS at No. 2. The companies were scattered among multiple categories from IT to professional services, to manufacturing for one.

Of companies I would put in the government contractor category, the list includes World Wide Technology (making its debut at No. 24), Deloitte (No. 47), Ernst & Young (No. 57), PricewaterhouseCoopers (No. 81), Accenture (No. 91) and CH2M Hill (making its debut at No. 100).

It’s a fun list, as much for who’s on and who’s not, as for the reasons Fortune considers these companies special.

Obviously the focus is on employees, so there are lots references to profit sharing and 401(k) plans, but communications and transparency between management and employees also earned points.

In the “What makes it so great” description for CH2M Hill, Fortune praised CEO Lee McIntire because he “not only tweets but also posts his own personal development plan on the company’s intranet.”

Health care options also were noted. Microsoft’s corporate campus has a new health center with primary care, a pharmacy, chiropractic clinic, lab and wellness coaching.

SAS might take the prize for quirkiness: Two artists in residence to foster what one employee told Fortune was “creative anarchy” as a spark for innovation. They also are developing an organic farm to supply its four cafeterias.

One takeaway for me is the need to companies to recognize their corporate personality and build on it. It’ll be reflected in the type of employees your company hire and retain and the passion and commitment they bring to the job.

Posted by Nick Wakeman on Jan 17, 2013 at 7:24 PM

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Reader Comments

Fri, Feb 1, 2013
Mary
Tennessee

Any company who does not put the focus on their employees will never be successful. These CEOs know that. They know that being a great place to work comes from doing for your employees, who will then do for you. It does not work the other way around - hoping your employees will do the right things, then rewarding them if you’re happy. Treat your employees with respect by employing honesty and open communications, let them do their jobs without interference, and reward them often – they will move mountains for you.

Fri, Jan 18, 2013
Bob Olwig
World Wide Technology - St. Louis

Thanks, Nick. In fact, World Wide debuted last year at #50. Congrats to all of the winners.
Bob Olwig
V.P. Corporate Business Dev. & Strategy
World Wide Technology

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